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Parent Volunteers Amplify Marist School Annual Fund Success

Marist School owes much of its Annual Fund success to the dedicated efforts of the Parent Annual Fund volunteer team, consisting of 15 families who collaborate closely with the Advancement Office. These volunteers play a crucial role in raising awareness and garnering support for the Annual Fund, which directly impacts the school's ability to provide tuition assistance, enhance programs across campus, and address pressing needs as they arise. Through their outreach initiatives, including phone calls, emails, letters, and events, they encourage every member of the parent community to contribute, emphasizing the profound difference even small donations can make in the lives of Marist students.
Throughout the school year, these dedicated volunteers engage in a multifaceted outreach effort aimed at their fellow parents. Armed with conviction and a sense of purpose, they employ various channels to rally support for the cause. Their message is simple yet compelling: every contribution, regardless of size, holds the power to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Marist students. By fostering a culture of participation and generosity, they embody the collective belief of the Marist community in nurturing compassionate individuals grounded in academic excellence, spiritual growth, and servant leadership.
 
Indeed, the success of Marist School's Annual Fund is a testament to the unwavering commitment of these volunteers, who selflessly devote their time and resources to uphold Marist values. Their dedication reflects not only gratitude for the opportunities afforded by a Marist education but also a profound belief in the transformative power of giving back. As pillars of support, they exemplify the spirit of community and solidarity that defines Marist School, ensuring that its mission continues to thrive for generations to come.
 
Parent Annual Fund Chairs Tiffany and Peter Bok, parents to Alex ’24 and Connor ’27, underscore the significance of parent participation in philanthropy at Marist School. They emphasize the far-reaching impact of combined gifts to the Parent Annual Fund, saying, “Collective contributions to the Parent Annual Fund have impacted every corner of our school, further fostering an environment that thrives on excellence in education, innovation, athletics, and the arts.  Our parents’ commitment to the advancement of our Marist community has allowed us to embark on initiatives that significantly enhance the overall educational journey of our students.”
 
During the previous academic year, parents achieved a milestone by collectively donating over $1 million to the Annual Fund, marking a historic moment in the school's history. Notably, 53% of all donors contributed $250 or less, amounting to a substantial sum of $145,197. This cumulative figure demonstrates how each family's participation can influence the school's capacity to provide the distinctive elements of a Marist educational experience.
 
“The combined efforts and dedication from our parents have not only elevated the educational experience for our current students but are also forming the foundation for future generations of learners,” Bok emphasizes.
 
The Boks lead by example, demonstrating their commitment to the Annual Fund by generously contributing at the Fr. James Hartnett Guild giving level. When asked about the importance of volunteering in a leadership capacity to support the Parent Annual Fund, Peter says, “We believe that volunteering for the Annual Fund contributes directly to the betterment of the school and, consequently, the quality of education all Marist students receive. Through our efforts, and those acting as grade level chairs, raising funds through the Annual Fund will make a significant difference in Marist School's financial foundation, and, ultimately, our children’s experience.”
 
Amy and Tim Murphy, who currently serve as vice-chairs for the Annual Fund and are set to assume the role of chairs next year, exemplify the spirit of commitment by also contributing at the Father Hartnett giving level. As parents to Cooper '27 and Anne Colins '29, they are poised to carry forward the legacy of hands-on leadership established by the Boks. Their dedication to both financial support and active participation underscores their deep investment in the continued success and advancement of Marist School's mission.
 
Marist extends profound gratitude to the dedicated Parent Annual Fund volunteer team whose unwavering commitment and selfless dedication propels the school forward. Their collaborative efforts with the Advancement Office serve as the cornerstone of the school's fundraising endeavors, ensuring the realization of vital initiatives and the provision of essential resources for all students. Through their outreach and advocacy, these volunteers cultivate a culture of philanthropy within the Marist community. Their work not only enhances the educational experience for current students but also lays the groundwork for future generations. Their invaluable service epitomizes the values of Marist School, and their legacy of impact will resonate for years to come, shaping compassionate, servant leaders who will continue to enrich our world near and far.
 
2023-2024 PARENT ANNUAL FUND VOLUNTEERS
Peter and Tiffany Bok, Parent Annual Fund Chairs
Tim and Amy Murphy, Parent Annual Fund Vice-Chairs
Kevin and Monique Kidder, 7th Grade Level Chairs
Matt and Heidi Gorman Bozzelli '95, 7th Grade Level Chairs
B.T. and Katherine Remmert, 8th Grade Level Chairs
Brent and Ashley Bellows, 8th Grade Level Chairs
Michael and Alison Chiock, 9th Grade Level Chairs
Chris and Lesley Baradel, 9th Grade Level Chairs
Matt and Tara Bartelt, 10th Grade Level Chairs
Peter and Pam Alexander, 11th Grade Level Chairs
Matt '88 and Bonnie Ashby, 11th Grade Level Chairs
Chris and Maureen Lamm, 12th Grade Level Chairs
Mark and Luci Phillips, 12th Grade Level Chairs
Megan Walsh Blackburn '95, Generations Co-Chair
Lauren Reddersen Donkar '96, Generations Co-Chair

Marist School

3790 Ashford Dunwoody Road, NE
Atlanta, GA 30319-1899
(770) 457-7201
An Independent Catholic School of the Marist Fathers and Brothers